2026 International Blues Challenge
Semi Finalist
 

2018 Dallas Observer
Top-10 Blues Bands
 

2017 Living Blues Breakout Artist

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Delmark Records recording artist EJ Mathews is often described as “Backwoods Blues with a Shot of Country.” EJ’s music blends foot-stompin’ rhythms, swampy grooves, and raw acoustic melodies into a style that is unmistakably his own.

 

Drawing from the traditions of the rural South while forging his own path, he delivers songs that are instantly memorable—full of grit, soul, and hooks that grab listeners from the very first beat.

 

EJ hails from the backroads of East Texas and Oklahoma, where red dirt, pine trees, and front-porch pickin’ shaped his sound from an early age. Raised in the rural community of Bivins near the Louisiana state line, EJ’s earliest musical influence was his Georgia-born grandfather, who played slide guitar on the porch and never leaned on cover tunes. As EJ shared in an interview, “I don’t want to sound like everybody else; I just want to be me. Granddaddy never played any cover tunes. There’s nothing wrong with it, it’s just not me.” That independent spirit still defines his music today.

With three acclaimed full-length albums and a growing collection of standout singles, EJ Mathews has built a catalog defined by authenticity, originality, and a deep connection to his roots. That distinctive sound has recently earned him a place on the roster of the legendary Chicago blues label, Delmark Records. EJ has completed recording his debut Delmark album at the label's Riverside Studio, with the highly anticipated release coming soon.

On stage, Mathews delivers lively, high-energy performances that resonate deeply with audiences. Whether in an intimate venue or a festival setting, he brings a distinct, swamp-bred sound that reflects his upbringing and ensures every crowd leaves engaged, energized, and wanting more.